WHO IS DEVLIN HODGES?
Do not underestimate this signing. Is he competition for Goff? Not at this point but he's definitely competition for Wolford.
( From Pass2Win.com) BREAKDOWN:
Devlin Hodges broke FCS/I-AA passing records of Alcorn St. Steve McNair for career… measures just under 6’1… sturdy, compact build… very smart, alert and creative passer… sets up quickly with well-balanced passing platform… high ball carriage always ready to throw… shows awareness in the pocket but calm, cool under pressure… excellent short-stride, shoulder torque and rapid release… the ball is coming out with Hodges… displays overall average velocity but zippy from mid-range-in… plays with an effective school-yard style… whatever it takes to complete the pass… varies release points as needed… though high-energy, Hodges is poised in live action… clearly trusts his eyes, intuition and his receivers… Hodges’ vision and anticipation was far ahead of his receivers… he’s throwing where they are supposed to be… lets it rip before receivers break; at times that’s a turn-over… very decisive and quick in his progressions… gets out of the pocket smartly but always looking for the throw… rarely gives up on a play… with Hodges at QB, all potential receivers must stay “hot” as the ball is coming… Devlin Hodges is a savvy, aggressive and productive passer that can be a capable starter in the NFL
IS HE MOBILE? Average.
DOES HE HAVE POCKET AWARENESS? Yes.
IS HE ACCURATE? Very.
WHAT KIND OF RELEASE? ¾ but varies as needed.
ARM STRENGTH? Just-above-average.
FOOTWORK? Solid.
CAN HE READ A DEFENSE? Yes.
CAN HE MAKE THE PRO THROWS? Yes, but best inside.
He's a dink and dunk QB who relies on timing patterns and accuracy. He's not a running QB but is mobile enough to get a 1st down but primarily his mobility to extend plays. Definitely not a vertical passing threat which might not play well in the NFL as the DBs will sit on the short to mid-range routes.
But more importantly, he was personally scouted by Les Snead. IMO Snead was looking for a long term backup for Goff. Hodges is the definition of a scheme dependent QB who needs WRs that run crisp, precise route (which the Rams WRs do). Because of his lack of vertical game, he was a poor fit for the Steeler's offense. We are looking at a #3 QB at this point. But with Wolford in a contract year his future is uncertain. Because of Wolford's ability to throw deep, he's obviously the #2 in this offense.